Under Where?

When it comes to all our "underwear", another important "under" comes to thought- "Under-estimated".

Just because something is not conspicuous, does not mean it is to be passed over. After all, you would not wrap a dirty old sock in a pretty Christmas gift box, would you?

My grandmother taught my mother, who then taught me that a woman should always wear good underwear when going out, in case of a mishap, and God forbid a doctor were to see your holey granny drawers. The preoccupation of decent undies has even been expressed, despite however crudely, by Vybz Cartel in his song "No dutty panty" where he says:

"No dutty panty, No dutty panty

Mek da drawers deh, is not fi yuh auntie.

If yuh na Christian , Drawers nuh fi holey."

Spanx shapewear

Granny and Vybz may only have this one thing in common; that one must take pride in their undergarments- for whatever reason. Someone might have to unexpectedly see them... whether it be the surgeon who saves your life, or a gentleman caller. (In this case, one who loves him some cake soap) 

There are other reasons your undies are important. They are foundation garments. The cut, fit, fabric and quality affect how your clothes will fit over them. Something that skims the body and flows over your limbs as you move, will be best suited for a smooth undergarment like a full slip, or shapewear shorts- not a thong. A thong is pretty much useless and provides no support. It is best suited for very fitted pants like stretch denim jeans. In this case, the pants themselves hold you firmly, and the miniscule fabric of the thong covers the essentials from discomfort. The right underwear choice can help make you look slimmer or more shapely, but tucking or accentuating what needs to be.

Before and After Spanx
http://www.themagicknickershop.co.uk/before-after-pics
for more pics

In Tim Gunn's Fashion Bible, a whole chapter is devoted to underwear. To refer to even more dancehall lyrics about female undergarments, (I tend to do this... I quoted Buju Banton in my thesis! Got an A so it's cool) Busy Signal says that going "pantyless" provides "easy access". Classy. Tim Gunn would probably choke if he were to hear this. Tim addresses the "anti panty" sentiment, saying: 

"Wearing underwear is part of practising good hygiene, and that's part of why the pround underwearless recall to me the proud unwashed."

I'm going to have to agree with him. This "easy access" business is just nasty. I do not want to think that i'm sitting on a chair that was previously rubbed up on by some naked sweaty poonks. VOMIT!

It's not just about panties though. Your bra is also important. I recommend you get a bra fitting to ensure that you have a flattering fit (providing lift and comfort) that would help your clothing to drape properly on your body. A well-fitting bra can also make you look like you dropped a few pounds, and will eliminate any evident "back fat" or unsightly creases.

 It's pretty trendy to have exposed bras right now. Remember, once something is exposed, it becomes more than just underwear. Please make sure that it is something worthy of being seen! Also, be aware of that very fine line between tacky and tasteful.

Tacky

Tasteful

Other important "unders" are items like undershirts, or camisoles. Wear when necessary, like at work under a sheer blouse. I saw pics that a woman posted of herself on Facebook of her all "stylish" for work. She wore a chiffon blouse with her friggin leopard print bra showing through!!! Unless it is the beach, a fete or a motel- no one needs to see that. I am expecting that she was fired.

So next time you are getting dressed, consider your foundation garments just as important as any other accessory that you put on. Just like your jewellery or shoes, the choice you make with your underwear will affect your overall presentation.